Preparedness of healthcare workers for the Ebola outbreak in Mubende and Kassanda districts, Uganda

Abstract

Background: Effective preparedness is essential to safeguard healthcare workers (HCWs) and strengthen outbreak response. The 2022–2023 Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in Uganda exposed critical gaps in healthcare preparedness, with HCWs accounting for 13.4% cases and 12.7% deaths. Aim: The study assessed preparedness of HCWs in public health facilities in Mubende and Kassanda districts, Uganda for EVD containment. Setting: The study was conducted in 16 public health facilities in districts severely affected by the 2022–2023 EVD outbreak. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2024 and June 2024 among 376 HCWs. Preparedness was assessed based on knowledge, infection prevention and control practices (IPC) practices and attitudes towards EVD containment. Data were collected using self-reported structured questionnaires. Preparedness was determined using median split. Logistic regression analysis was performed in STATA, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess statistical significance. Results: One hundred and fifteen (30.6%) HCWs met preparedness criteria. A total of 295 HCWs (78.5%) could not correctly don personal protective equipment (PPE), while 258 (68.6%) could not correctly doff PPE. The HCWs with degree or higher had higher odds of being prepared (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.55, 95% CI: 1.26–16.45) compared to those with lower qualifications. Similarly, HCWs with 11–15 years of experience had higher odds of being prepared compared to those with fewer years (aOR: 3.47, 95% CI: 1.12–10.07). Conclusion: Overall preparedness among HCWs was low. This highlights the need for continuous professional development and routine practical training on PPE use including donning and doffing procedures. Contribution: Findings provide evidence to guide targeted interventions for improving HCW preparedness for future EVD outbreaks.